This volume tackles head-on two crucial issues concerning the relationship between decentralisation and development. In an uncompromising assessment of controversial claims, it provides comprehensive evidence-based analysis and critique of this key policy prescription for Africa. -- Professor Nancy Thede, Department of Political Science, Quebec University, Montreal|"This is a major contribution to the study of decentralisation in Africa as it does not stop at describing intentions, but deals with implementation successes and shortcomings. The balance sheet of intended and unintended effects of a major reform on both poverty and conflict is convincingly established on the basis of a limited number of case studies, comparative analysis and theoretical considerations. Essential reading for both academics and decision-makers in this field. " -- Andreas Mehler, Institute of African Affairs, Hamburg